Centered on two-knobbed Brown Mountain to the west and three-knobbed Van East Mountain to the
east, this Wilderness includes a little over 2000 acres and reaches 1130 feet in elevation. An area
known as “Weiss Shutins” occurs at the south end of the mountain along Rock Creek. Other small
grottoes occur throughout the area. Long Gravel Branch flows through the area, with small springs
adding a steady flow of water to the creek.
Barren outcrops high on the south flank of the mountain provide superb vistas into the Lower Rock
Creek Wilderness to the south. Other outcroppings occur throughout the area, offering soul-filling
vistas of surrounding valleys and ancient hills.
Portions of the two mountains are known for excellent displays of the fragrant and beautiful rose
azalea. Ozark witch hazel flourishes in the gravelly streambeds.
Four distinct community types are found on the area. These communities are of such high quality that
the University of Missouri identified this area in a special study as one of the outstanding
natural areas in southeast Missouri.
Van East Mountain Wilderness is located north of Highway D approximately three miles west of Silver
Mines Recreational Area, and a portion of the area connects to the proposed Lower Rock Creek
Wilderness to the south making for a valuable wilderness corridor. Several primitive hiking trails
found in the area, along with old abandoned logging roads, make the area easily accessible for
nature study, day hiking, or for overnight backpacking trips.
Proposed Wilderness Acreage
2,020 acres in Mark Twain National Forest
Map of Van East Mountain
Proposed Wilderness
Map provided for reference information only. MWC is not responsible for it's accuracy.
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